In a statement released on behalf of Mr Nicholson’s family, his son Robert said: “Dad was well known and well-liked within the local community, and he will be sadly missed by all his family and friends.”

Police said this afternoon there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death and a report will be sent to the Procurator Fiscal.

Mr Nicholson was set upon by cows with calves while walking his dog on farmland near Marchmont House at around noon last Sunday.

The house caretaker saw what was happening and drove into the area in his Land Rover to rescue Mr Nicholson, who was rushed to hospital.